Desert Sky Middle School

“Building a Community of Learners”

9850 E. Rankin Loop Tucson, AZ 85747

(520) 879-2702 dsms.vailschooldistrict.org

https://facebook.com/DesertSkyTucson

2020-2021 Student Handbook

Katie Dabney, Principal

Rebecca Marsh, Assistant Principal

Student Name: _____________________________

Grade: _______

Mascot: Cougars School Colors: Red and Navy Blue

Vail School District Superintendent John Carruth

Vail School District Governing Board

Callie Tippett President Jon Aitken Clerk Allison Pratt Member Claudia Anderson Member Mark Tate Member

Table of Contents

Student Agreement / Parent Signature Letter …………………………….2 Vail School District Telephone Number Directory …………................3 Desert Sky Telephone Directory …………………………………………………4 Vail School District Calendar K-8 ……………………………….………………5 Vail School District Guiding Principles ……………………………………….6 Desert Sky Middle School’s Mission Statement ………………………….7 Student Attendance …………………………………………………………………..8 Cougar Guidelines …………………………………………………………………9-16 Cougar Attire ……………………………………………………………………………17 The School and the Law ………………………………………………………18-19 Cougar Conduct Consequences ……………………………………………….. 20 Read with CURAJ …………………………………………………………………… 21 Raising Expectations Document ………………………………………………22 Student Concerns, Complaints & Grievances ………………………23-24 ACT Statement ………………………………………………………....................25 DSMS Citizenship Rubric …………………………………………………………26 PRIDE Program…………………………………………………………………..27-28 PRIDE Cards (July – May) ………………………………………………….30-50

“If I plan to learn, I must learn to plan.” Dear Parents, The staff of Desert Sky Middle School is pleased to give this agenda to your child. Students are expected to have it with them at school each day and during each class period. Consistent use of it, with encouragement from you, will help ensure success in school this year. The purpose of the agenda is two-fold: • It is an organization tool for your child. • It is a home-school communication tool for you and your child’s teachers. We ask that you do the following three things: 1. Review the features of the agenda with your child. It contains the school handbook

and assignment calendar. Please be sure to discuss the Cougar Guidelines and Conduct Consequences with your child.

2. Each page of the assignment calendar provides space for teacher comments.

Homework and study assignments are to be written on the assignment calendar in the appropriate spaces each day. Teachers will periodically communicate with you on these pages and may require your signature. You may also use this agenda to communicate with teachers.

3. Please let us know that you have reviewed the handbook and the importance of this

agenda with your child by signing at the bottom of this page. Please feel free to add your comments in the space provided.

Thank you, The Desert Sky Middle School Staff Yes, I have reviewed and understand the handbook and agenda, and I have discussed it with my child. Student Signature Parent/Guardian Signature I have read and understand the information on pages 27-28 regarding the P.R.I.D.E. Program.

Student Signature Parent/Guardian Signature

Vail School District -Telephone Number Directory

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Vail School District 879-2000

Superintendent 879-2003

Business Office 879-2021

Community Services 879-2030

Curriculum & Instruction Department 879-2038

Food Services, Sodexho 879-2041

Human Resources Department 879-2064

Preschool Services 879-2084

Special Education Department 879-2051

Transportation Department 879-2050

Vail School District Fax 879-2001

Vail School District Web Page http://www.vailschooldistrict.org

Acacia Elementary School 879-2200

Andrada Polytechnic High School 879-3300

Cienega High School 879-2800

Civano School 879-1704

Copper Ridge Elementary School 879-3700

Corona Foothills Middle School 879-3500

Cottonwood Elementary School 879-2600

Desert Sky Middle School 879-2700

Desert Willow Elementary School 879-2300

Empire High School 879-3000

Esmond Station 879-3400

Mesquite Elementary School 879-2100

Ocotillo Ridge Elementary School 879-3600

Old Vail Middle School 879-2400

Pantano Alternative School 879-3940

Rincon Vista Middle School 879-3500

Senita Valley Elementary School 879-3100

Sycamore Elementary School 879-2500

Vail Academy & High School 879-1900

Vail Innovation Center 879-1300

Desert Sky Middle School 2020 / 2021 Phone Directory

4 9850 E. Rankin Loop Tucson, AZ 85747

NAME Extension Room PositionAbrigo Gabriella 2742 400 8th MathAken Sheri 2747 308 Behavior Specialist/ELLBruyn Muriel 2705 105 Office ManagerBustamante Angela 2732 303 8th Language ArtsChen Ming 125 6th / 7th Chinese Immersion ProgramCollier Seana 2758 505 ResourceConference Room 2797 OfficeCosta Nic 2745 403 8th Language ArtsCosta Anna 2743 401 STEMCouzens Stacey 2709 127 Student Achievement TeacherDabney Katie 2704 106 PrincipalEdwards Denise 2735 317 8th ScienceEscalante Jessica 2712 Office RegistrarFrancis Michelle 2724 207 ISSFrancis Michelle 2775 125 Lab TechGalvan Amanda 2751 415 8 Social StudiesGolwasser Sharon 2739 316 7th ScienceGourley Karen 2708 125 LibraryGremel Julie 2757 504 8th MathGulotta Nancy 2713 124 PsychologistHill Kristi 2729 300 6th Lang. Arts/Social StudiesHill Todd 2731 302 7th Language ArtsHughes Daniel 2707 125 Technology CoordinatorHunter Jocelyn 2766 Gym PEIrvin Deana 2734 305 ResourceIsaac Joe 2760 513 7th Language ArtsJackson Abby 2756 503 Language ArtsJames Spenceer 2748 412 Language Arts/Social StudiesJeffries Michelle 2752 416 6th Math/ScienceJordan Kevin 2719 136 8th Social StudiesKitchen Supervisor 2788 204 KitchenLifeskills 2737 314Marsh Rebecca 2715 104 Assistant PrincipalMischel Anka 2726 215 Band/OrchestraMoore Taylor 2738 315 7th Social StudiesMurray Tina 2762 515 7th ScienceNussmeier Lisa 2761 514 7th Social StudiesOlvera Andrew 2749 413 6th Lang. Arts/Social StudiesRamos Kellina ELPRepavich Kristin 2717 125 Student Data CoordinatorRicciardelli Matt 2763 516 8th ScienceRodriguez Sal 2767 Gym PERojas Edsel 2720 137 8th MathSeaman Pat 2721 123 Copy TechSherwood Brandon 2744 402 8th ScienceShort Eileen 2709 Advanced MathSmith Micah 2780 313 InclusionSmith - Dryden Sally 2753 500 6th Lang. Arts/Social StudiesStaff Lounge 2723Stout Tory 2736 313 InclusionSundquist Melissa 2754 501 MathTalley Karleene 2711 113 Volunteer CoordinatorTalley Karleene 2711 113 Intervention SpecialistTanner Becky 2741 318 7th MathThach Melissa 2750 414 6th Science / MathThorpe Wiliam 2755 502 6th Science/MathValdez Maxine 2710 108 Health AidVera Katie 2764 517 8th Social StudiesVines Desiree 2746 404 ResourceWactor Denise 2702 Office Principal SecretaryWilkes Aubry 2727 201 ChoirWillard Meagan 2730 301 6th Math/Social StudiesWilson Sabrina 2728 213 ArtWright Jennifer 2706 126 Student Services CoordinatorYturralde Shenee 2718 134 Speech

Vail School District Guiding Principles

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VAIL SCHOOL DISTRICT

“Where Education is a Community Effort “

Mission Statement It is the mission of the Vail School District to provide parents with safe and nurturing school communities, where their children can obtain a quality education.

Guiding Principles OUR SCHOOLS ARE COMMUNITIES OF LEARNERS. We define a community as a place where each individual is important and has something valuable to contribute to others in the community. We believe that learning is a lifelong activity. We are all learners. We expect parents, staff members and volunteers to model this belief for students. WE CARE ABOUT STUDENTS. We believe that each student should be given the opportunity to be educated in a physically and emotionally safe, personalized, and caring environment. ONE OF OUR HIGHEST PRIORITIES IS KEEPING CLASS SIZES SMALL. Working with students in smaller groups increases opportunities for learning, personal attention, a sense of belonging and the development of a supportive classroom community. WE ARE COMMITTED TO FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. We are entrusted with using public resources to provide a quality education for our students. We carefully develop priorities based on student needs, legal responsibilities and cost-effective methods. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY. Our schools are the centers of the community. We actively seek community involvement. And, we respond to community needs. WE RESPECT PARENTS AND THEIR VALUES. We operate on the behalf of parents. It is our responsibility to assist parents in the education of their children. We value parental involvement, and make every reasonable effort to address and respond to parental concerns. SMALL SCHOOLS ARE THE BEST PLACES TO DEVELOP CARING COMMUNITIES OF LEARNERS. We like the atmosphere of a small school that has been developed into a positive, healthy community. We prefer small schools. We seek to create that small school atmosphere in all of our schools, regardless of the size that growth and economics may force them to become. WE BELIEVE LEARNING EXTENDS WELL BEYOND THE CLASSROOM. Our educational program is enriched and extended with opportunities such as: field trips, recreational activities, academic competitions and club activities. WE UPHOLD TRADITIONAL VALUES SUCH AS RESPECT, PERSONAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY, HONESTY AND HARD WORK. We model socially responsible behavior, expect it from each student and make it part of our curriculum. We believe these traditional values have served our society well in the past, are cherished by our community and are important to our future. WE ARE CONTINUALLY IMPROVING. We are never content with the status quo in our operations or in our curriculum methods. We recognize that we live in a changing world and we respond to those changes. And, we are constantly looking for better and more efficient ways to accomplish our mission. WE VALUE OUR EMPLOYEES. We specifically and carefully select our staff on the basis of their ability to carry out the mission and guiding principles described above. We hire the best people suited for the task. We respect their expertise and depend on them to work with parents to make our vision for a community of learners a reality.

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“Building a Community of Learners”

Desert Sky Middle School’s Mission is to Provide:

• A safe and positive learning

environment

• High standards for academic and behavioral excellence

• Trusting and respectful relationships

• Varied learning opportunities

DESERT SKY MIDDLE SCHOOL

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

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ARRIVING LATE OR LEAVING EARLY It is important for students to arrive on time to school for a variety of reasons such as: • Being late can cause a disruption to the

class. • Students may miss important

information if they are late. • Being on time is an important life skill

for students as it is highly valued by many important people such as employers, creditors, and loved ones.

Please be aware of the following policies should a student happen to be late to school: • Only medical and dental appointments

may be deemed as excused tardies. A student must have a note from the office of the medical practitioner at the time he/she is tardy in order for the tardy to be excused.

• Emergencies and special circumstances may be approved at administration’s discretion.

• Students who receive an unexcused tardy receive a “No” stamp for PRIDE. Students with continued unexcused tardies will be deemed as truant and law enforcement will be contacted.

Students who are tardy prior to 8:15 a.m. are to report to their advisory classroom, rather than go to the office. Students who are tardy after 8:15 a.m. are to report to the office and sign in. Students leaving early must have permission from a parent. For safety reasons, students may not check themselves out of school. Only authorized persons may check a student out. MISSING ASSIGNMENTS Upon returning to school, students will be responsible for compiling and completing missing assignments. Make-up work

should not exceed one week from the time a student returns to school following an absence. HOMEWORK REQUESTS A request for homework can be made when the absence is called in. Requested work may be picked up the following day. Work may also be sent home with another student the following day. Another way of checking on homework, is by visiting each teacher’s website/blog. WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL All students withdrawing from Desert Sky Middle School must check out through the school office and take a copy of the withdrawal form to the next school they will be attending. It is helpful if you can provide the DSMS office with your new address and the name of your new school at the time of withdrawal. Students who withdraw are responsible for returning all books and paying for any lost or damaged books. This includes library books and textbooks. INCLEMENT WEATHER In cases of inclement weather, please check our school’s web site at dsms.vailschooldistrict.org, or our Facebook page, or call our front office at 879-2702 to gain information and updates on how this may affect the opening of school on such a day.

COUGAR GUIDELINES

ASSEMBLIES Assemblies are a regularly scheduled part of the curriculum and as such are designed to be educational as well as entertaining experiences. They provide an opportunity in school to learn formal audience behavior. Regardless of the type of program, courtesy demands that the student body be respectful and appreciative. Talking, whispering, yelling, stomping feet and booing are discourteous and will not be permitted. Guest speakers and program presenters have always been quick to point out how polite Desert Sky students are at assemblies. Let's keep our good reputation. A student who fails to follow these guidelines will have his/her privilege to attend assemblies suspended. ASSESSMENTS v AzM2 (Previously called AzMERIT)

AzM2 (Arizona’s Measurement of Educational Readiness to Inform Teaching) is Arizona’s statewide achievement test. In 2010, the Arizona State Board of Education adopted new standards in English language arts and mathematics for all students in Arizona. With the adoption and implementation of new standards, a new test was necessary. Arizona public school students in Grades 3 through high school will take AzM2. Students in Grades 3 through 8 will take an assessment in English language arts and mathematics at their grade level. AzM2, based on the new standards, will tell teachers, students, and parents if students are on track to be college and career ready upon graduation from high school. The Arizona Science Standards are changing as well, so students in Grades 4, 8, and high school will take the new AzSCI test.

v Benchmark Assessments Benchmark assessments measure the academic standards taught in math, reading, writing, and science. Scores reflect whether students are highly proficient, proficient, partially proficient, or minimally proficient in the standards in each area.

DMS Each morning, after our announcements in advisory class, students partake in DMS (Daily Math Skills) in the area of math. Students in each class do a three-minute practice of the skill they are on, beginning with skill #1 in the Middle School Skill Sequence for the grade, then take a two-minute test. This occurs daily. The goal of the daily DMS is that students develop stronger accuracy and fluency of math skills necessary at their grade level

v Formative Assessments When a math or language arts teacher finishes teaching a performance objective in the classroom, he or she will give the students a short five question multiple choice test based on the topic that was taught to check for mastery of the concept. Scoring is as follows: • 4/5 or 5/5 correct = proficient • 3/5 correct = partially proficient • 2/5, 1/5 or 0/5 correct = minimally

proficient • Students scoring 4/5 or 5/5 correct will

be considered proficient on that concept. Those students who score 0 - 3 points correct will need extra help with the concept. At this point, the math or language arts teacher may place the students that need extra help in a reteach class to reteach the concept again. The student will then take a formative test again at the end of the learning to measure proficiency at that time. The teacher will then take an average of the two test scores for a final score. We believe doing smaller assessments along the way, and reteaching prior to benchmark tests, will help students be more prepared to build on future learning and be more successful on the Benchmark and AzM2 assessments.

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

AWARDS Students may earn the following awards at our quarterly awards assemblies: Principal’s Award, High Honor Roll, Honor Roll, Citizenship, P.R.I.D.E. Award, Specialist Awards, GRIT and DMS Award. BIKES and WALKERS Because of our location on Rita Road, precautions are in place for students walking or riding bikes to school. Students must cross at the designated areas, follow crossing guard instructions, and follow the walking routes. Bikes must be locked to the bike rack. CAFETERIA The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program of the school. To encourage good nutrition, a well-balanced lunch is offered at a reasonable price. Students have the opportunity to pre-pay for their lunches. Meal prices for the 2020-2021 school year: Lunch: $2.80 Breakfast: $1.25 We encourage families to make payments for school meals through MealTime Online or at the school with cash or check. There is a nominal fee for using the MealTime Online payment option. This fee is a processing fee and does not benefit the District. Payments through MealTime Online may take 1-2 business days to reflect the credit. Go to www.MyMealTime.com to create an account. If a student’s meal account balance is inadequate to pay for the entire meal, the school will provide K-8 students with a healthy alternative to the menued school lunch and the meal account will be charged. High school students will not be permitted to charge any part of a student meal if the charge will result in a negative balance. For any questions concerning negative balances, delinquent student meal accounts, or for assistance with the free or reduced price meal application please contact Vail School District Food Services at vailfoodservice@valschooldistrict.org or call 879-2015 or 879-2072.

CAFETERIA EXPECTATIONS

• Keep backpacks under the table • Remain seated until dismissed • Keep tables and floors clean • No throwing food • Leave all drinks and food inside

Possible Consequences for Non-Compliance

• Clean the cafeteria • Moved to an alternative seat • Serve detention • Perform community service work • Receive an office referral

CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES & Smart Watches Use of cell phones or electronic devices, including portable blue tooth speakers, is not permitted on campus during school hours (8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) including PRIDE and remediation. Any student who brings a cell phone or electronic device to school must keep it turned off and in his/her backpack during school hours. Consequences for violation of this policy are as follows: • 1st offense – cell phone or electronic device

is taken and turned in to the office – parent is notified and student may pick it up at the end of the school day

• 2nd offense – cell phone or electronic device is taken away and turned in to the office – student receives a written referral - parent is notified and parent may pick up cell phone or electronic device from front office

• 3rd offense – cell phone or electronic device is taken away and turned in to the office – student receives a written referral - parent is notified and cell phone or electronic device is returned to parent or student on the last day of the semester.

Please keep in mind that additional consequences will occur for a student who not

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

only violates our policy, but also uses a cell phone or electronic device in such a way that breaks other school rules. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Please also know that students are permitted to use the office telephone or classroom telephone only with permission or a pass from a teacher. Please keep telephone calls short. No student will be called from class to receive a telephone call. CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES & Smart Watches – INTENTIONAL USE Students who intentionally use their cell phone on the Desert Sky campus between normal school hours (including PRIDE and remediation) to text message, e-mail or make a phone call will be disciplined according to the following guidelines: 1st offense – 1 day of in-school suspension; parent must pickup the student’s phone from the front office 2nd offense – 1 day of out of school suspension; phone is kept by administration and returned to the student at the end of the semester Further transgressions of intentional cell phone misuse will continue to result in progressive consequences. EXTRA HELP Students may always seek extra help from teachers if they do not understand an assignment, if the work is too difficult, or if they have been absent and have missed assignments and class discussions. Remediation opportunities and Intersession classes will be made available (dates and times TBA). FIRE DRILLS AND EMERGENCY DRILLS Fire and emergency drills are held regularly. Students will be instructed by each of their classroom teachers as to which exit they will use when vacating the building. Students should adhere to the following rules when the alarm sounds to leave the building:

• Keep in single file. • Stay quiet to listen for announcements.

• Do not run, but move quickly and quietly to a designated area until instructed to return to the classroom.

Always remember: IT COULD BE THE REAL THING. Observing the above rules will ensure the safety of all. Any student who falsely reports a fire or rings the fire alarm without cause will be subject to suspension from school and will be reported to the county Fire Marshall for legal action. HALL PASSES • Any student who leaves a classroom during

class time must be accompanied by a teacher or have a hall pass form completed in his/her student agenda from an authorized staff member. Passes must include the student's name, the date, time and purpose of the trip.

• Students should not take any side trips. • Except for emergencies, all students should

have a pass from his/her teacher before reporting to the health office.

• Only one student at a time may be released from class except in an emergency.

HEALTH OFFICE The District has a registered nurse to train and supervise all health aides and clinic facilities. The health aide is on duty each school day during regular school hours. All emergencies should be reported immediately to the teacher, who will send or accompany the student to the health office. Except for emergencies, all students should have a pass from his/her teacher before reporting to the health office. Students should not go to the restroom if feeling ill. Students who have been absent due to an illness should be fever or nausea-free for 24 hours before returning to school. No medications will be administered unless a Prescribed Medication Permission Form is properly completed and signed by BOTH PARENT and PHYSICIAN and this form is on file in the school health office. ALL MEDICATIONS are to be kept in the health office and never carried by a student. Tylenol and antibiotic ointment may be administered with a parent signature on the Medical Information Form.

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

Arizona law requires students to be up to date with their immunizations in order to attend school. Upon entering 6th, 7th & 8th grade, students should be up to date with all the following immunizations. Immunization Number DTP 4-5 IPV/OVP 4 MMR 2 Hep B 3 Varicella 2 (or date of disease) Tdap 1 (must be 11 or older) Meningococcal 1 (must be 11 or older) By law, we are unable to release your child to anyone that is not on his/her emergency contact list. For that reason, it is imperative to provide us with several emergency contacts and updated information if those contacts change in any way. If a child is left in temporary custody of another adult (i.e., parent on vacation or out-of-town), please notify the school office by filling out the Child Care Authorization Form located in the school office so we can add that adult to the student’s emergency contact list. If a parent or emergency contact cannot be reached in the event of an emergency, 911 will have to be called. HOMEWORK POLICY Purpose of Homework At Desert Sky Middle School, we believe there are several important purposes of homework. • Homework builds responsibility,

organization, and study skills. • Homework allows for practice and

reinforcement of a skill that has been taught in class.

• Homework can also serve as an extension of learning from the classroom environment.

• Homework may allow for a preview of upcoming learning that will take place in a new unit of study.

• Homework completion leads to better grades and higher overall academic achievement.

• Homework prepares students for real-life responsibilities they will encounter in future years.

Time Allotments The following are average time frames a student may be assigned for homework each evening, Monday – Friday:

6th grade – 60 minutes 7th grade – 70 minutes 8th grade – 80 minutes

Please keep in mind that there may be more homework on some evenings or weekends when long-term projects are assigned. In addition, the amount of time students take to complete homework assignments may vary. What may take one child 60 minutes, may take another child 30 minutes, and yet another 90 minutes. If your child takes substantially longer than the average time allotments to complete homework assignments, please schedule a meeting with his/her teachers. Tips for Parents Here are some helpful hints in assisting and/or supporting your child with his or her homework. You might also check the teachers’ website/blog for periodic updates on assignments. • Check the student agenda daily for assigned

homework from each class. • Designate and set aside a certain block of

time for homework every evening. • Find a quiet place in your home where your

child can focus on completing homework. • Homework assigned to your child is typically

from the day’s lesson and your child should be able to complete it by himself or herself. Provide support by checking in from time to time and give praise for good work.

• Check to make sure all homework has been completed at the end of the homework session each evening.

• Please encourage your child to use his/her time in class wisely; this will greatly diminish the amount of homework he/she has each evening.

• You can check your child’s progress on Powerschool to see how he/she is doing on his/her homework Usernames and passwords will be mailed out to all parents within the first month of each school year.

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

Should you not receive this information please contact your child’s advisory teacher or check your child’s report card.

• Read the monthly editions of our school’s newsletter, The Cougar Call, and your student’s teaching team newsletter. Both are emailed home with the goal to be to you by the first of the month. The Cougar is also available on our school’s Facebook page and web site at dsms.vailschooldistrict.org

• Read the marquee that is located in front of the school.

• Check out the display case located just outside the school office.

• Read our announcements from our student-led, daily school news broadcast called Cougar News Central (CNC). They are available at dsms.vailschooldistrict.org.

• Look at the section of the student agenda where your child writes assignments and important dates.

• Be on the lookout for flyers that come home with your student.

• “Like us” on Facebook. LOST AND FOUND Please bring any articles you have found to the office. The lost and found is located in the MPR. Any valuables that have been found and turned in to the office will remain in the office. After an extended period of time, articles will be disposed of, as there is a limited amount of storage space. If you lose something, always check the LOST AND FOUND in the MPR and with the front office. Many good articles of clothing, jewelry, and other items are not claimed each year. MEDIA CENTER The Desert Sky Library Media Center is open every day from 7:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. for reading, researching, studying, and learning. Students may visit the library at any time with a pass from the classroom teacher. Up to three books may be checked out of the library for two-week periods, and may be renewed upon request. Consideration and thoughtfulness towards others should be a priority in the library since the entire school shares this space and the resources there. Please show mutual respect for others in the library by: • Speaking in a low voice so that you do not

disturb those trying to concentrate.

• Taking proper care of library books so that others may use them.

• Returning library books on time so that others have access to them.

• Always signing in so that teachers and the media center specialist know where you are and who has visited the library.

• Asking questions! The library staff is happy to help you locate information, teach you how to use a computer resource, recommend a book to read, or help you think through a research project.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION Vail Unified School District #20 does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its educational programs or activities. Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504, and Americans With Disabilities Act may be referred to the Superintendent, John Carruth, or Kevin Carney, Assistant Superintendent and Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator, 13801 E. Benson Hwy. Vail, AZ 85641, (520) 879-2000. Aviso de No Discriminación, El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Vail # 20 no discrimina a base de raza, color, origen de nacionalidad, sexo, edad, religion, o inhabilidad en admisión o acceso a, o tratamiento de personas o empleo en, sus programas educacionales o actividades. Si usted tiene preguntas o algun otra cuestión sobre Titulo VI, Titulo VII, Titulo IX, Sección 504 ud. puede digerirse con al Superintendente Sr. John Carruth , o Asistente al Superintendente Sr. Kevin Carney, 13801 E. Benson Hwy., Vail, AZ 85641 (520) 879-2000. PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical Education is required for 6th - 8th graders for two quarters. Students can purchase uniforms from their PE teachers at the school price. T-Shirts are sold for $10.00, athletic shorts are $12.00, sweatpants are $15.00, and hooded sweatshirts are $22.00. If students choose not to purchase a school uniform, they MUST DRESS OUT IN A WHITE OR GRAY T-SHIRT AND BLUE GYM SHORTS/SWEATPANTS. Every student is expected to dress out for every P.E. class.

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

Students may wear sweat suits during winter months. Failure to dress out will have the affect of lowering a student's P.E. grade. In case of illness or disability, notes from the parent will be accepted to excuse the student from that one day of activities. A DOCTOR'S WRITTEN NOTIFICATION WILL BE NECESSARY TO RELEASE ANY STUDENT FROM P.E. ACTIVITIES FOR MORE THAN ONE DAY. The doctor's excuse should include length of release time from class, type of activity the student is restricted from, and any other pertinent information. All clothes and personal items should be locked in the gym locker before students leave the locker room. Anything of value should be secured in the teacher’s office before class begins. The student, not the school, is responsible for his/her personal belongings. PROMOTION CRITERIA Promotion considerations will include the following: • Grades • Test scores • Age • Current achievement • Social maturity • Attendance • Teacher evaluation and judgment • Students who fail to successfully complete

required remediation hours per the District’s Raising Expectations policy will be retained.

• 4th Quarter Suspensions

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION Students are reminded that they are to be responsible and appropriate at all times. Kissing and holding hands are not permitted. RESTROOMS

Students are expected to keep the restrooms clean. These restrooms are for student use, so please help maintain them in a healthful condition. Students are to report to their teacher for a pass to the Health Office if they are feeling ill. SCHOOL AND OFFICE HOURS School begins for students at 8:00 a.m. The first bell rings at 7:55 a.m. The school day ends at 3:00 p.m. The school’s front office is open from 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. SPORTS AND SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Opportunities will be provided for students to participate in team athletics. There will be a $1.00 general activity fee for any club or extra curricular activity. Sports Seasons • All Year: Cheerleading • August–October: Co-Ed Flag Football, Girls’

Volleyball, Cross Country • October–December: Boys’ Basketball, Girls’

Soccer • January–March: Girls’ Basketball, Boys’

Soccer, and Co-Ed Wrestling • March–May: Baseball, Softball, Track and

Field, Boys’ Volleyball

Eligibility In order to be declared eligible for participation in team sports, students must meet the following criteria: • Current physical form must be on file in the

Desert Sky Health Office before participating in any sport including practices - physicals are good for one year from the time they are completed.

• Maintain a C grade point average, no Fs in any class

• Maintain a “Meets” or “Exceeds” rating on the Citizenship Rubric

• Pay a non-refundable, activity fee per student per sport. Fees for the 2020-2021 season are $75.00 per sport.

• Fees must be paid before the first game/meet.

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

Students’ eligibility to participate, using the criteria listed above, is determined each Thursday during the season. Students who are declared ineligible are not able to participate in games and remain ineligible for an entire week until eligibility is checked again the following Thursday. They are, however, permitted and expected to participate in practices. Other Important Information • Students who are suspended from school

may not participate or attend a game or practice.

• Students who are absent from school may not participate or attend a game or practice on the day of an absence.

• Students who are declared ineligible three times during a given season are dismissed from the team.

• Students who are ineligible at the start of intersession will remain ineligible for the remainder of the season if the season ends during the intersession break.

• Students who are required to serve PRIDE hour on the day of a game or practice must serve the PRIDE hour before attending the game or practice.

• Students who owe PRIDE hour on the same day his/her team will be traveling to another school for a game will need to attend PRIDE hour and make other transportation arrangements if he/she still wants to attend the game.

Students are reminded that school rules apply at all extra-curricular activities. Good sportsmanship should be shown at all times. Athletes who present chronic disciplinary problems will be removed from the team/activity at the discretion of the coach/sponsor or school administrator. STUDENT DROP-OFF AND AFTERNOON PICK-UP TIMES Parents are reminded that students are to be dropped off and picked up in the parking lot in front of the gym. Drop-off time should not be earlier than 7:30 a.m. Scheduled supervision does not begin until this time. Desert Sky Middle School cannot be responsible for your child if he/she is dropped off at an earlier time. Students being picked up after school must wait for their rides on school grounds. School officials will supervise them

until all buses are gone. There will be no adult supervision after 3:10 p.m. unless the student is in an organized after school activity. The school cannot be responsible for pick-ups after that. Regarding after school activities, supervision will be provided up until one-half hour after the conclusion of the event. The school cannot be responsible for pick-ups after that. STUDENT VALUABLES Students are responsible for personal property. If you wear glasses or a watch, keep track of them at all times. If it is necessary to bring more money than needed to pay for lunch, leave it in the office for safekeeping. DO NOT leave it in your backpack or classroom desk. The school will not take responsibility for the loss of such items. Selling of personal items on campus is prohibited.

TEXTBOOKS and CHROMEBOOKS Students are responsible for maintaining their textbooks and/or chromebooks. Please do not write in books or intentionally damage them. Each student will be issued textbooks to take home. Teachers will check the condition of the books prior to distribution to the students and again when they are returned at the end of the year. Students will be charged for damage beyond the normal wear and for loss of books. Students will not receive replacements until payment is made. Students should check the condition of their books when issued. If students or parents feel that the condition listed is inaccurate, please bring this to the attention of the office immediately. Book covers are recommended. VISITORS PASSES We welcome all visitors, yet for the safety of our campus we must know who all visitors are. All visitors must report directly to the Desert Sky office. Students from other schools are not allowed as visitors during our school day unless they have received prior written permission from a Desert Sky Middle School staff member.

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COUGAR GUIDELINES

WANT TO KNOW HOW YOUR CHILD IS DOING IN SCHOOL? • There is internet access to your child’s

grades and behavior for each class based upon our Citizenship Rubric that can be accessed anytime at ps.vail.k12.az.us/public/ as long as you know your child’s username and password. A web letter is mailed home at the beginning of each year to provide parents with the login information.

• On a daily basis you can check the PRIDE section of your child’s student agenda and find out if he or she did not turn in an assignment on time, was late to class, or did not bring the required materials for each class.

• Attend our quarterly awards assemblies. • Engage your child daily about his/her

progress and how things are in school. • Call or e-mail your child’s teachers. Our

teachers strive to return voice mail and e-mail by the following day, Monday - Friday.

• Attend parent-teacher conferences. • Progress reports will be mailed home every

four to five weeks to students with D’s or F’s. Report cards will be mailed home to all students every nine weeks.

• We will mail you home the results of how your child did on each Benchmark test as well as the AzM2 test.

• Our teachers will be contacting you should academic or behavioral concerns arise as well as for positive behaviors.

WELLNESS POLICY The Vail School District enacted a Wellness Policy under the direction of the Arizona Department of Education and US Federal law, signed 6/30/2004. The Vail District and the staff at Desert Sky are committed to providing a school environment that promotes and protects children’s health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity. Healthy eating is demonstrably linked to reduced risk for mortality and development of many chronic diseases as adults. We also realize that snacks do play an important part in providing children with nutrients to support growth and learning. It is also recognized that parties are a fun way to

celebrate. With a little imagination, snacks and parties can be a lot of fun while still providing healthy, nutrient-rich food. Just as children acquire tastes for sweets, they acquire tastes for healthy fruits and vegetables too. That is why encouraging these foods for snacks is so important for good health. Getting children in the habit of eating healthy snacks not only provides them with the nutrients they need to grow, it helps set them up for a lifetime of healthy eating as they get older. All food items purchased to be shared at school, must show the nutritional fact label. No food items can be “homemade” or prepared/cut at home. For more information, go to: http://www.azed.gov/health-nutrition/nutrition-standards/ This will hopefully help serve as a guide to what snacks are allowed in the classroom if a parent is bringing a treat to share. While we hope that families will also encourage healthy choices on an individual family basis, there will be no “policing” of what foods or drinks a student brings from home to school, as long as it is only for the child’s own consumption. Gum Gum is not permitted on campus. Please refrain from chewing gum while on school grounds.

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THE SCHOOL AND THE LAW Schools have gained national attention for student misconduct. It is the intent of Desert Sky Middle School to take the following seriously and act in accordance with the best interest of our students to provide a safe learning environment. Please refer to the Cougar Consequences for further detail. BULLYING Desert Sky strives to be an environment that will be absent of all threat. We create an atmosphere in and out of the classroom where thoughtful people work together and strive to make all students feel honored as important and worthwhile people to know and to be in relationship with. Bullying and intimidating will not be tolerated. BULLYING IS REPEATED, INTENTIONALLY HURTFUL BEHAVIOR Bullying is not a mutual conflict, disagreement, or altercation between peers. In instances of bullying, there is a clearly defined victim and bully. Bullying includes but is not limited to physical intimidation, physical abuse, threats, name calling, social isolation, gossiping, and spreading rumors. EXTORTION Threatening other students or extorting money or property from them is prohibited. Extreme disciplinary action will be imposed on those who attempt this. Students who are victims of such acts are asked and encouraged to report it to teachers or to someone in the office so that definite action can be taken. This is the only way to ensure that such acts may be curtailed. FIGHTING AND HORSEPLAY Horseplay often results in injury or leads to serious fighting. Therefore, it is not permitted and may be treated as fighting when referred to administration. Fighting at the bus stop, on buses, or anywhere on campus is prohibited. Students engaging in such activity face suspension or other disciplinary action. GOING TO AND FROM SCHOOL Student safety is our highest priority. We believe maintaining student safety requires an approach that is both proactive and vigilant. Please know that while we are not responsible for the actions of students going to and from school, we do have the authority to investigate and administer consequences with students who infringe upon the safety of other students going to and from school, just as we would during normal school hours or school events. Furthermore, we will exercise this authority if there are situations that we feel are in the best interest of maintaining student safety and of the school.

LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS Desert Sky staff is responsible for student safety and well being while here at school. For that reason, students will not be permitted to leave school grounds after having arrived in the morning unless they are signed out at the front office by a parent or guardian. PHYSICAL ATTACK A physical attack is when one person or group of persons assaults another person who does not wish to engage in the conflict and who has not provoked the attack. This is a serious offense and law enforcement may be notified. STEALING Any student who commits or attempts to commit a theft or breaking and entering at school may be suspended and/or referred to law enforcement. Theft includes stealing school property, stealing from faculty, fundraisers, school employees or other students. Breaking and entering includes entering the school building, lockers, locked rooms, or other areas prohibited because of time or specific reason. Stolen or lost property should be reported to the school office immediately. THREATENING BEHAVIOR OR LANGUAGE Using threatening, abusive or vulgar language towards teachers, students or other people is strictly forbidden and will be severely punished. Making threatening gestures towards others also will be treated as a serious offense. Law enforcement may be notified. TOBACCO AND CIGARETTES Smoking chewing tobacco, dipping snuff, or possessing smoking materials or tobacco products is subject to disciplinary action and may be reported to law enforcement. WEAPONS, DANGEROUS OBJECTS & DRUGS Students are prohibited from having in their possession any firearms, explosives (such as firecrackers), knives, drugs or drug paraphernalia, alcoholic beverages, or other dangerous articles. This school will not tolerate the use of prohibited drugs by any of its students. Any student apprehended using, possessing, or transferring possession of prohibited drugs will be suspended and the police will be notified. Passing off any substance as a drug to others will be treated is a serious offense and is punishable by suspension from school.

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DISCIPLINARY ACTION Students who create discipline problems or who violate the Cougar Guidelines may be disciplined by the school personnel in one of the following ways: PARENT CONTACT A teacher or administrator will open the lines of communication when there is a discipline problem at school. We believe that when all parties are aware of a problem quick solutions are more easily found and implemented. TEMPORARY ALTERNATIVE SEATING ASSIGNMENT Teams of teachers can work out an arrangement to offer temporary placement of a student in another classroom. During that time, students will work independently on schoolwork. AFTER SCHOOL or LUNCH DETENTION A teacher or administrator keeping a student after school will give one day’s notice of detention. Parents are expected to provide transportation home for their child. Detention will usually be held after school. However, a student may be detained during lunch period or other suitable times as well. COMMUNITY SERVICE A teacher or an administrator may assign specific tasks around the campus as a logical consequence to a prohibited behavior. Examples include, but are not limited to, cleaning cafeteria tables and picking up litter. IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION Students may be removed from their regular classes and work on their daily assignments under the supervision of a staff member. They receive credit for work completed. Students may not attend any extracurricular activities including team practice or games while in Alternative Education. Students causing disciplinary problems while in Alternative Education will receive an out-of-school suspension. RESTRICTION FROM ACTIVITIES Students who present discipline problems during assemblies or extracurricular school activities may have their privilege to attend such activities suspended for up to the remainder of the school year.

BUS SUSPENSION Students are generally given a warning for the first infraction of a bus regulation. Repeated offenses will result in a loss of bus riding privileges for periods ranging from one day to the remainder of the year. For serious misconduct, bus suspension may result on the first offense.

SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL The Desert Sky Council and the Vail School District have established that students may be suspended out-of-school for the following offenses:

• Fighting – Acts of violence • Threats or Intimidation • Bullying • Severe or reoccurring disrespect • Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drugs • Arson or attempted arson • Physical attack • Dangerous objects such as:

firearms, fireworks, explosives, knives, metal pipes, sharpened implements, clubs, pepper spray, etc.

• Destruction or damaging of school property or property of another

• Extortion or attempted extortion • Harassment • Theft • Disrespect to Desert Sky Staff

members • Repeated classroom disruption • Dishonesty

All consequences begin with notification of parents. A student’s out-of school suspension may require a parent conference with an administrator before a student is readmitted. During a suspension, parents will have complete custody and jurisdiction of their child. A suspended student may not appear on school property or at any school sponsored activity at any Vail school. STUDENT CONDUCT RESPONSIBILITIES A student is under the school’s authority at any time he/she is on school property. This includes the time spent on school buses, field trips, and in any school related activities. It is impossible for any teaching or learning to take place in a classroom unless good order is maintained. This is not only for one student’s benefit but for the benefit of others as well. Responsible behavior is a distinguishing feature of a respectful student. Become familiar with these guidelines. They exist to provide an orderly, safe environment where learning can take place.

Cougar Conduct Consequences

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Behavior Possible Consequences Weapons possession or use of real or simulated weapons, firearms, or explosives

Severe infraction Suspension or Expulsion law enforcement notified

Alcohol Possession, use, and / or distribution Drugs the non-medical use, possession, distribution or sale of chemical substances – also imitating drug use with other substances or drug paraphernalia

10 days out of school suspension at a minimum law enforcement notified

Threats of Life verbal, written or physical threats to anyone

5 days out of school suspension law enforcement may be notified

Tobacco, Cigarettes, e-cig, Vapor Products and CBD Oils/Paraphernalia Possession, use, and / or distribution of these types of products – also imitating use with other substances

5 days out of school suspension law enforcement may be notified

Physical Attack physical attack of one person or group of persons upon another person, who does not wish to engage in the conflict and who has not provoked the attack

5 days out of school suspension law enforcement may be notified

Fighting fighting or abuse of students or staff; two or more parties involved

3 days out of school suspension

Stealing taking or concealing property belonging to others

2 days out of school suspension

Ditching leaving school grounds or class / failing to attend without adult permission

1 day out of school suspension

Destruction of School Property Vandalism, graffiti, and other intentional damage to school property

1 day out of school suspension

Gang Activity wearing, carrying or displaying gang paraphernalia including hand signs or graffiti

1 day in-school suspension

Dangerous Objects possession or use of a dangerous object or any object which could cause harm

1 day in-school suspension

Harassment, Intimidation or Hazing comments, gestures or requests intended to intimidate

1 day in-school suspension

Loss of Control acting out to the point of removal from situation

1 day in-school suspension

Profanity/Obscenity lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct, expression or distribution of materials

Referral – Any combination of three referrals within a semester will result in a one day of ISS

Disruptive or Disrespectful Behavior behavior or expression that causes a disruption to learning or exhibits disrespect

Referral – Any combination of three referrals within a semester will result in one day of ISS

Dishonest Behavior including cheating or lying

Referral – Any combination of three referrals within a semester will result in one day of ISS

Defiance/Uncooperative Behavior choosing not to follow staff instructions or directions

Referral – Any combination of three referrals within a semester will result in one day of ISS

R

ARUC

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Read the question.

Circle key words in the question, and say it in your own words.

Underline important information in the passage or problem. Reread the question and passage to reach understanding.

Answer the question.

Justify your answer.

Desert Sky Middle SchoolActive Reading Strategy

Read with CURAJ

WITH

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VAIL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 20 “Where Education is a Community Effort”

RAISING EXPECTATIONS

The following policies were enacted to focus attention on the value of academic achievement and to increase accountability.

REWARDS 1. Students who are “Proficient” on each section

of the AzMERIT will receive a ribbon. 2. Students who are “Proficient” on all sections of

the AzMERIT and “Highly Proficient” on one or more sections will receive a plaque.

3. Students who are “Highly Proficient” on all

sections of the AzMERIT will receive a trophy.

REQUIRED INTERVENTIONS 1. A District Assessment will be given to all

students for math and reading prior to the end of the first three quarters. • Any 3rd - 5th grade student who does not

meet the district assessment standard will be required to complete 12 hours of remediation for each deficient area.

• Any 6th - 8th grade student who falls far below the district assessment standard will be required to complete 12 hours of remediation for each deficient area.

2. If at the end of the1st, 2nd, or the 3rd grading

period a student has an F in a core course (math, language arts, reading, science or social studies), the student will be required to successfully complete a minimum of 12 hours of remediation for each failing grade.

3. If at the end of the 4th grading period a student

has an F in a core course, the student will be required to successfully complete12 hours of remediation for each failing grade during the summer break. Eighth grade students who fail a core course in the 4th quarter will not be permitted to participate in promotion ceremonies.

Remediation may include one or more of the following:

1. Tutoring 2. Intersession courses 3. Summer school 4. Saturday school 5. Additional academic courses in lieu

of Specials or Electives 6. Private or Commercial Tutoring

pre-approved by the principal

CONSEQUENCES Students who fail to successfully complete required remediation will be retained. High School AIMS results will be posted on student’s permanent transcripts.

GRADES 3 THROUGH 8

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES Regular school attendance promotes learning and achievement; therefore, students who have nine or more days of excused or unexcused absences in a semester will be required to complete 12 hours of remediation.

NOTES • Individual schools may choose to implement

complementary positive and negative consequences for all testing programs.

• Special Education students requiring interventions will be referred to the IEP team.

• Students will be treated as individuals and principals will have the authority to make exceptions.

• Any retention decision may be appealed to the Governing Board, as per board policy.

2011 Arizona School Boards Association

Student Concerns, Complaints, And Grievances (To be displayed in school Buildings and in student handbooks)

Students may present a complaint or grievance regarding one (1) or more of the following:

● Violation of the student’s constitutional rights.

● Denial of an equal opportunity to participate in any program or activity for which the student qualifies not related to the student’s individual capabilities.

● Discriminatory treatment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.

● Concern for the student’s personal safety.

Complaints and grievances related to allegations of student violence, harassment, intimidation or bullying are to be filed in accordance with Board Policy JICK. Provided that:

● The topic is not the subject of disciplinary or other proceedings under other policies and

regulations of the District, and

● The procedure shall not apply to any matter for which the method of review is prescribed by law, or the Governing Board is without authority to act.

The guidelines to be followed are:

● The accusations must be within thirty ( 30 ) calendar days of the time the student knew or should have known that there were grounds for the complaint/grievance.

● The complaint/grievance shall be made only to a school administrator or a school member.

● The person receiving the complaint will gather information for the complaint form.

● All allegations shall be reported on forms with the necessary particulars as determined by the Superintendent. Forms are available in the school office.

● The person receiving the complaint shall preserve the confidentiality of the subject, disclosing it only to the appropriate school administrator or next higher administrative supervisor or as otherwise required by law.

Any questions concerning whether the complaint or grievance falls within this policy shall be determined by the Superintendent. A student or student’s parent or guardian may initiate the complaint process by completing Exhibit JII-EA.

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2011 Arizona School Boards Association

A complaint or grievance may be withdrawn at any time. Once withdrawn, the process cannot be reported if the resubmission is longer than thirty ( 30 ) calendar days from the date of the occurrence of the alleged incident. False or unproven complaint documentation shall not be maintained. Retaliatory or intimidating acts against any student who has made a complaint under the District policy and its corresponding regulations, or against a student who has testified, assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation relating to a complaint or grievance, are specifically prohibited and constitute grounds for a separate complaint. Knowingly submitting a false report under this policy shall subject the student to discipline up to and including suspension or expulsion. Where disciplinary action is necessary pursuant to any part of this policy, relevant District policies shall be followed. When District officials have a reasonable belief or an investigation reveals that a reported incident may constitute an unlawful act, law enforcement authorities will be informed.

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Are Respectful and TrustworthyCare About Each OtherTake Responsibility

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Citizenship Rubric

Students’ behavior will be assessed using the Vail School District’s ACT statement. Criteria for each behavior is listed below. Criteria includes but is not limited to the following:

● Respectful Demonstrates appropriate social skills such as speaker courtesy, polite speech, and courtesy to staff and peers.

Trustworthy Demonstrates honest behavior by not cheating, lying, or stealing.

● Caring Demonstrates kindness towards staff and peers by being helpful and supportive, working cooperatively, and encouraging others. Students demonstrate positive interactions by avoiding bullying behaviors such as gossiping, spreading rumors, name calling, and physical aggression.

● Responsibility Demonstrates responsible behavior by following school and classroom rules and by accepting consequences for his/her own actions. Students are responsible for their own learning by following through with assigned work, completing make-up work, and asking for help and clarification.

All students will begin within the “Meets” category at the start of each quarter. Movement up or down within the Citizenship Rubric is based upon students’ behavior throughout the quarter.

● Exceeds Exhibits outstanding, exemplary behavior; citizenship behaviors are easily and frequently observed.

● Meets Consistently exhibits citizenship behaviors.

● *Approaches Inconsistently exhibits citizenship behaviors; needs to focus on improving in one or more areas.

● *Falls Far Below Rarely exhibits citizenship behaviors; needs to focus on improving in one or more areas.

*Students who fall within the “Approaches” or “Falls Far Below” area are not eligible to participate in after school sports for at least one week. At the time of the next eligibility check, students’ eligibility will be reinstated if they have moved to the “Meets” category. Eligibility is checked on Thursday of every week.

Desert Sky Middle School PRIDE Program One of the most important goals the staff at Desert Sky Middle School has is to help students establish the necessary and beneficial study skills that will ensure their success in school now and in the future. To help us facilitate this goal, Desert Sky uses the PRIDE Program. PRIDE is an acronym for Personal Responsibility In Daily Efforts. The PRIDE Program addresses three expectations:

• Students will arrive to class on time • Students will complete and turn in assignments on the day they are due • Students will come to class prepared (materials, books, and supplies)

STAMP SHEETS

• On the following pages, you will find PRIDE stamp sheets. For every day of the year, for each class, your child will be given a “yes” if he/she has met the PRIDE Program expectations or a “no” stamp if expectations were not met.

REWARDS If a student receives all “yes” stamps during a given time period, there are ample rewards in place to reinforce this positive behavior.

• Weekly - At the beginning of each week, students’ PRIDE stamp sheets will be checked for all “yes” stamps from the previous week. Students who have all “yes” stamps for that week will be eligible to have their name drawn for a prize on our Cougar News Central live TV broadcast.

• Monthly – Students with all “yes” stamps for the month will receive a “Homework Pass”. The

“Homework Pass” will be used in lieu of a homework assignment. The student must check with his/her teacher first to determine if the “Homework Pass” can be used for that assignment. In addition, students will receive a PRIDE Plus Card. The card will take the place of the student’s stamp sheet. The student will no longer have to be stamped. However, he/she will need to show his/her PRIDE Plus Card. A student who earns the PRIDE Plus Card will keep it as long as he/she does not receive any “no” stamps. When a student has a Pride Plus Card and does not meet one of the PRIDE Program expectations, the card will be taken away, and the student will have to use the stamp sheet again.

• Quarterly - Students with all “yes” stamps for the quarter will be given award certificates at our

quarterly award assemblies and be able to participate in a school reward activity.

• Yearly – Students with all “yes” stamps for the entire year will receive a trophy.

WE CARE PASS

We recognize that students are not perfect. Even the most organized students may forget an assignment or book at home. Therefore, all students receive a monthly “We Care Pass”. This pass is in essence a “do-over”, a “mulligan”, or a “freebie” if you will. This pass allows students the opportunity to have either a tardy, missing assignment, or missing materials once a month without consequences. Students are then given a “yes” stamp for that class.

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CONSEQUENCES • If a student receives a “no” stamp, then the student must serve PRIDE Hour after school the

following day. PRIDE Hour will be held Monday – Thursday, 2:55 p.m. – 3:45 p.m., throughout the school year. It is the student’s responsibility to notify his/her parents that he/she will be staying for PRIDE Hour. Bus transportation home after PRIDE Hour will not be available.

PRIDE HOUR EXPECTATIONS

• When students are assigned to PRIDE Hour, they will be expected to work on schoolwork until they are dismissed. Teachers will be available for homework help. If a student refuses to work or is off-task, he/she will be assigned another PRIDE Hour to make up the time.

• When a student is assigned to PRIDE Hour and does not attend he/she will be assigned to PRIDE

Hour for the next two days. Failure to report twice during the school year will result in in-school suspension.

• If a student loses his/her stamp sheet, he/she will be issued a replacement sheet for the remainder

of the month, receive a “no” stamp for not being prepared, and will serve a PRIDE Hour. The second lost sheet will result in the student serving two PRIDE Hours. After that, lost stamp sheets will result in serving three days of PRIDE Hours.

• Students involved in extra-curricular activities must serve PRIDE Hour before they can attend

practices or games/activities.

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